Zoning Board of Appeals

Overview

The Zoning Enforcement Officer (ZEO) is responsible for enforcing the Town's Zoning By-Law and other land use requirements for the purpose of promoting and maintaining a safe and desirable living and work environment. The Town's Building Inspector serves as the Zoning Enforcement Officer.

The Building Inspector is responsible for making determinations regarding the interpretation of the Grafton Zoning By-Law (ZBL) with regards land use, set-backs and non-conforming lots and uses. Projects that result in creating a non-conformity or disputes regarding the Building Inspector's interpretation of the ZBL can be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is created under the provisions of MGL CH 40A, which empowers local Board of Appeals to hear appeals, grant variances and issue certain special permits pursuant to the Grafton Zoning Bylaw.

Filing Deadline Policy

In addition to the filing deadline details listed on this page and in the application, any additional materials requested by the Board or its staff shall be submitted at least five days business days prior to the scheduled meeting. (Updated December 14, 2017)

Comprehensive Permits (40B)

Massachusetts General Law (MGL) Chapter 40B enables the local Zoning Board of Appeals, in consultation with other local boards and officials, to grant a single permit to an eligible developer proposing state or federally subsidized low- or moderate-income housing at a density greater than allowed by local zoning. The Board may override local requirements and regulations that are inconsistent with affordable housing needs if environmental and planning concerns have been addressed.

View Past Meetings

Videos of the Zoning Board of Appeals meetings can be viewed on the Grafton Community Television Website using the Video On Demand feature. Search the playlist for Zoning Board of Appeals to view a list of past meetings that have been taped for rebroadcast. You can also find video on the Town's YouTube channel.

Email Notifications

Keep up-to-date in real-time. You can receive email notifications regarding Meeting Agendas, Meeting Minutes and News and Announcements from the ZBA and other Town Departments. Subscribe to email notifications.

Contact Us

The Zoning Board of Appeals Secretary is located in the Building Department. Contact the Zoning Board of Appeals.